The new kick-off time: The match is now scheduled to start at 3:30pm on Saturday, May 23, 2026.
This is a slight shift from the originally projected 4:30pm slot and the change is designed to accommodate the unique circumstances surrounding the final and its participants.
The reason behind the change: The schedule was adjusted following a major Spygate scandal which saw Southampton expelled from the play-offs after admitting to filming opponents' training sessions.
This led to the reinstatement of Middlesbrough, who were beaten by the Saints in the semi-finals.
What the EFL have said: In a formal announcement, the EFL confirmed Middlesbrough would replace Southampton following an Independent Disciplinary Commission’s ruling on "multiple breaches of EFL regulations".
